Frequently Asked Questions

What is a remote trainer?

Remote trainers allow you to communicate with your pet. With proper use, they help reinforce your commands and correct your dog’s unwanted behaviors. They provide the ability to train your dog with precise timing and with consistency, both of which are important for effective training.

How does a remote trainer work?

There are two basic components to a remote training system: a handheld “transmitter” and a “receiver” which is worn on a dog collar. You use the transmitter to send a signal to the receiver on the dog’s collar. Depending on the training situation, you can select one of four different signals to send to the receiver:

An audible tone or a vibration

A brief stimulation* (1 second)

A constant stimulation (up to 8 seconds)

Note: the V-10 Vibration Trainer does not include the stimulation options. It has 10 levels of vibration and an audible tone.

The signal from the dog’s receiver collar can get your dog’s attention or distract him from an unwanted behavior. By obeying your obedience command or by stopping the undesired behavior, your dog quickly learns to avoid and/or stop tone or sensation which is delivered by the receiver.

* "stimulation” may also be referred to as “correction”, “training stimulation” or “shock”

Will the stimulation signal hurt my dog?

The “stimulation” from the collar is intended to distract your dog by delivering an unpleasant but harmless sensation similar to the static shock you receive after walking across a carpet in your socks.

The BigLeash training collar provides you with multiple stimulation levels. Most dog trainers find they can achieve their desired results using a low intensity stimulation, often barely perceptible to humans. All BigLeash models also include both an audible and a vibration signal which allows you to condition your dog to associate the audible tone or vibration with the training correction, thus eliminating the need for the stimulation altogether.

Which stimulation level is correct for my dog?

Always start with the lowest level and work your way up as needed. You will know you have found the proper stimulation level when your dog responds to the stimulation with only a mild twitch or perk of the ears or like you have given him a quick tug on a leash.

The same approach applies to the vibration levels for the V-10 Vibration Trainer.

What is the difference between “Brief” and “Continuous” stimulation?

Brief stimulation is a quick “attention getter” that lasts only for a fraction of a second, regardless of how long you press the button. This stimulation has been described as feeling like a mosquito bite.

Continuous stimulation is a pulsating stimulation that continues until you release the transmitter button (up to 8 seconds maximum).

What kind of safety features do the BigLeash Remote Trainers have?

In addition to having multiple training levels as well as audible and vibration modes, the BigLeash can be set to level “0” so that you will not accidentally send a signal when you have the collar on the dog but are not actively using the trainer. Additionally, the BigLeash S-15 includes an automatic shut-off feature that limits the continuous stimulation to 8 seconds.

What age should my dog be before I can begin using a remote trainer?

The appropriate age depends on the dog and his readiness for training. Your dog needs to have a basic understanding of what is expected of him and he must understand basic commands. Some trainers recommend waiting until the dog is five or six months old; others will train younger dogs if they understand the basic commands.

Can my DogWatch Dealer assist me with training?

Many DogWatch Dealers offer assistance with training or will recommend a local trainer.

What is the correct way to use remote trainer?

Remote trainers are intended for two basic purposes:

To assist with training and reinforcing desirable behaviors, such as obedience commands. Your dog learns to “turn-off” the vibration or stimulation by performing the command correctly.

To correct unwanted behaviors, such as digging, chewing, jumping up, etc. Your dog learns to associate the vibration or stimulation with the unwanted behavior and, therefore, stops doing the behavior.

Remote trainers are not recommended for dogs with a history of aggressive behavior unless being used by experienced dog trainers.

See Training Tips and the Owner’s Guide for more specific training information. There are many books, videos and online guides, which provide additional remote trainer information.

How tight should the BigLeash receiver be fastened around my dog's neck?

The receiver collar should be worn comfortably snug on your dog’s neck. If it appears that your dog isn’t feeling the stimulation, try tightening the collar strap. Be sure the collar is tight enough for the contact points to reach through the undercoat.

My dog has some irritation on his neck from the receiver collar.

This is probably a skin irritation from the contact posts rubbing the throat. One of the following has likely happened:

The collar was on your dog too long. Do not leave the collar on your dog for more than eight hours a day.

The collar is too tight or too loose. Make sure the collar fits properly. You can position the contact posts in different locations along your dog’s neck to help avoid skin irritation.

Can I cut the excess collar strap off after I fit the collar to my dog?

Yes – please do.

How do I insert the charger into the receiver collar?

The charging port of the receiver collar is on the back of the receiver under the protective tab. Lift the protective tab to insert the charger. Replace the protective tab securely after charging. Do NOT remove the screw that secures the protective tab.

How long do rechargeable batteries last?

The duration of the battery charge depends on how you use the collar. If the collar is used intermittently and turned-off when not in use, the battery charge will last longer than if corrections are made frequently and/or the collar is left on when not in use. For best results, we recommend charging the collar when it is not being used – preferably every night. Frequent charging will not damage the battery or shorten the duration of the charge or the life of the battery.

What is the warranty on these collars?

DogWatch Inc. provides a 2 year limited warranty on the BigLeash transmitter and receiver for both parts and labor from the date of purchase. DogWatch Inc. provides a 1 year warranty on parts and labor for batteries from the date of purchase. Accessories such as chargers and splitter cables carry a 1 year warranty. The Warranty does not cover repairs or replacement due to misuse by the owner or dog, improper maintenance or lost units. Water damage on transmitters that are “water resistant” is not covered under warranty and subject to repair charges. The warranty is void if the unit has been altered or an unauthorized person has attempted repair work. Warranty is non-transferable.

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